Lysis

biological process

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Pathways of complement activation

The main function of complement proteins is to aid in the destruction of pathogens by piercing their outer membranes (cell lysis) or by making them more attractive to phagocytic cells such as macrophages (a process known as opsonization). Some complement components also promote inflammation by stimulating cells to release histamine and by attracting phagocytic cells to the site of infection.

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blood transfusions

...the donor’s blood against that of the recipient to prove compatibility became possible. When blood with the A antigen (type A or AB) is given to someone with anti-A antibodies (type B or O blood),
lysis of the red blood cells occurs, which can be fatal. Persons with blood type O are universal red cell donors because this blood type does not contain antigen A or B; however, because type O blood...

complement system

in immunology, a complex system of more than 30 proteins that act in concert to help eliminate infectious microorganisms. Specifically, the complement system causes the
lysis (bursting) of foreign and infected cells, the phagocytosis (ingestion) of foreign particles and cell debris, and the inflammation of surrounding tissue.